Heem hat-trick for Auckland

Former Tasman man Heem opened his account in the fourteenth minute at ECOLight Stadium but a response from Counties Manukau number eight Maama Vaipulu meant the home side went in at the break 5-8 in front.

Despite the powerful Vaipulu crossing again in the 48th minute for the Steelers, Auckland went up the gears in the second period with penalties from Simon and Jono Hickey going with Heem's second on 54 minutes.

Strong finisher Heem would add the gloss in the 80th minute with his hat-trick and Auckland's final try of the game as they finish above Tasman, who they will host next week at Eden Park, in second spot in the league.